What Happens During a Teeth Cleaning?

Many people dread heading to a teeth cleaning but the truth is: it's a simple and painless process. Explore the various steps of a teeth cleaning for a deeper understanding with the help of your Washington D.C. dentist, Dr. Vajdi.

A Physical Exam

Your teeth cleaning will be performed by a dental hygienist, but before that happens, your mouth needs to be examined. A small mirror will be used to look at your teeth and gums. If problems are found, the dentist will be called in for a complete exam.

Removing Plaque and Tartar

With the small mirror, the hygienist will use a scaler to rid your mouth of plaque and tartar. You will hear some scraping, but there is nothing to worry about.

Toothpaste Cleaning

When the teeth are plaque and tartar-free, the hygienist will brush your teeth with an electric brush. This tool is one of the best pieces of equipment hygienists use to keep your smile clean.

The toothpaste they use tastes and smells like regular toothpaste. You will notice that they have a gritty consistency that helps to scrub the teeth better.

Flossing

The hygienist will then floss between your teeth like a pro. They have a better vantage point and can spot areas that you might be missing.

Rinse

The hygienist will supply you with a mouth rinse that contains liquid fluoride. This is the best way to rid your mouth of any debris left from the cleaning.

Other Procedures

Depending what is seen in your mouth, other procedures might need to occur. This could be with x-rays or even molar sealants for kids.

It is important that you visit your Washington D.C. dentist twice a year for a professional cleaning. By understanding all of the steps involved, you should be able to attend your appointment with ease. Everything that will be done is to help you maintain a healthy smile for many years to come. Don’t miss your appointment! Call Vajdi Dental today at (202) 822-3787 to schedule your visit.